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Monday, April 16, 2018

On The Night of the Shooting Star, written by Amy Hest and illustrated by Jenni Desmond. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2017. $22.99 ages 4 and up

"Every morning, first thing,
Bunny looks through the fence
and the tall grass at Dog.

And every morning, first thing,
Dog looks through the fence
and the tall grass at Bunny.

No one says hello.
Or hi.
Or nice to see you today."

They are neighbors. They live their own separate lives. Bunny's yard is grassy, with a rabbit shaped door on the hutch, a ladder to the rooftop garden and a swing hanging from a tall tree. Dog's yard has a meticulously mowed lawn, a 'do not disturb' sign on the door, a carefully contained garden, and a comfy chair placed in the shade of a flowering tree. Their houses inside have much in common.

Their lives are sedate and enjoyable. They certainly are aware of the their neighbor. As they go about their days, each peeks at the other. As they settle in at night, they check that the light is on next door. But they never take the time to greet one another. Seasons come and go. They stick to themselves although they do wonder.

"One sleepless night, Bunny goes out to the
yard to watch the stars above the little red house.
Dog's house. Dog needs a friend, she thinks.
Who could be Dog's friend?
The stars are dim but beautiful that night."

As luck would have it, Dog is also mindful of Bunny's need for a friend.  Then, fate intervenes. The two share a very special occurrence, and friendship blooms.

I am such a fan of both author and illustrator. Together, they have created a warm story of found and lasting friendship. Though, at one time, each was happy with their own company, Dog and Bunny are story-living proof that life can be much better with a friend at your side.

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